Gotrax Hoverfly ION Hoverboard Review 2020
Check the latest prices on the Gotrax HoverFly Ion
Gotrax Hoverfly ION Key Features
| Motor | Max speed | Distance | Wheel size | Max weight | Charging time | Bluetooth or Smartphone app? | Colors available | Waterproof? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 200W | 6.2 MPH / 9.9KM | 5-9 miles or 8-14km | 6″ | 176 lb or 86kg | 3-4 hours | No | 9 | No |
Gotrax Hoverfly ION Overview
Gotrax has established itself as a leader in the electric transport niche, they’ve continued to release high-quality electric vehicles in the space, and their hoverboards are some of the most popular on the market in 2020.
The Gotrax Hoverfly ION is one of 3 in the Gotrax range of self-balancing hoverboards. The ION is stylish, lightweight and packed full of features. This is especially impressive considering that the ION is one of the most affordable hoverboards available in 2020. It’s primarily designed as an affordable model for kids, so it won’t be breaking any records for speed or distance, but it’s still a great option for young riders or buyers on a budget.
The technology has progressed leaps and bounds since the popularity of hoverboards/self balancing scooters soared in 2016, and despite what you might think, they’re actually intuitive, very easy to ride and perfect for beginners (more on this below). This is in part due to the advanced software and self balancing technology, which will help you mount the hoverboard when its stationary.
Read on to see our full review and why we think the Gotrax Hoverfly ION is one of the best hoverboards for kids in 2020.
Speed and power & Distance
How fast does it go?
The top speed is almost always the first question that people ask when buying a hoverboard. According to the Gotrax website, the Hoverfly ION will reach speeds of 6.2 MPH or 9.9KM. If you’ve been researching hoverboards, you’ll know the ION isn’t the fastest hoverboard on the market, or even in the Gotrax range. Whilst it’s still pretty quick when you’re actually on the board, if having the fastest hoverboard on the block is important to you, then you should consider other options.
What age/weight is it suitable for?
The Hoverfly ION is designed for younger, lighter riders making it one of the best hoverboards for kids and teenagers. Whilst Gotrax state that the hoverboard isn’t just for kids, the max weight is 176 lb or 86kg, so most adults are going to be at the higher end of the weight limit and a heavier load will affect range and speed. In our opinion, its a perfect hoverboard for teenagers and kids, but if you’re buying a hoverboard for an adult then the others in the Gotrax range such as the Eco or XL will likely be more suitable.
What is the range/distance?
The Hoverfly ION will go for 5-9 miles or 8-14km on a full charge. Again, it doesn’t have the best range out of the Gotrax hoverboard range, but its still a fairly impressive distance for a lightweight hoverboard.
Can it be used offroad?
The Hoverfly ION is designed for roads and pavements, and if you’re looking for a hoverboard to use primarily offroad, there are better options. That said we had no trouble taking the ION over the occasional grassy or dirt patch.
Battery life
How long does it take to charge?
The Hoverfly ION will take approx 3-4 hours to charge with a completely depleted battery. This is one of the most disappointing factors in this Gotrax Hoverfly ION review because not only does the ION have the lowest distance in the Gotrax range, it also takes the longest to charge. Just remember to put it on charge when the kids go to school!
Battery protection & safety
With the bad press that hoverboards received in 2016 when some brands started catching on fire and exploding, it makes sense to do your research on battery safety. All electrical, battery and chargers for the Gotrax Hoverfly ION are compliant with UL 2272 safety standards, which is now an industry standard. The industry is now much more heavily regulated and its highly unlikely that problems like this will arise from the reputable brand, Gotrax.
How long will the battery last for?
We were unable to find any specific information on the life cycle of the battery, but most lithium-ion batteries like this one should last 500-1000 cycles depending on usage. Contact the supplier if this is of specific importance to you.
Design and Ergonomics
Does it connect to your smartphone via app or Bluetooth?
Unfortunately, the Gotrax Hoverfly ION is produced without Bluetooth or smartphone app capabilities. This is a limitation of the Hoverfly ION and might be a bit of a let down for tech enthusiasts, but as its a budget hoverboard, it’s hardly surprising.
Does it have lights?
The Gotrax Hoverfly ION has pretty futuristic looking lights and gives it a unique, ultra-modern look which we think really sets it apart from other hoverboards. The front and rear have LED’s and there are LED rings on the wheels which light up.
Hoverfly ION spares & accessories
Gotrax have a huge number of spares & accessories available for the Hoverfly ION; alongside offering spares for the majority of their other models. These Hoverfly ION spare parts/accessories are the perfect way to enhance your repair your ride; fixing faults or improving performance. Source battery packs, spare tires, tubing, batteries, fenders, control consoles and much more. It’s always reassuring that should any faults arise, riders can repair them quickly and easily themselves; both with manufacturer approved parts and at a fair price. Discover the full range of Hoverfly ION spare parts & accessories.
Wheel size & material
The Gotrax ION has durable 6″ solid rubber tires, so they require you pump them up or worry about punctures.
Does it come in different colors?
The Gotrax Hoverfly ION comes in 9 different color combinations: aqua, black, blue, midnight blue, orange & green, red, white and yellow. There are many different styles and they all look great!
Build quality and ease of use
Is it easy to ride?
Perhaps the most popular question after ‘how fast does it go’, is ‘is the Hoverfly ION easy to ride’.
The self-balancing technology in the Hoverfly ION uses sensors to help you mount the stationary hoverboard easily.
First time using a hoverboard? Don’t worry. The Hoverfly ION has a training mode with a reduced speed to help first-time riders master the basics safely.
The Hoverfly ION uses gyroscopic technology which allows riders to turn, accelerate and slow the hoverboard by tilting and adjusting their weight placement on the board. Riding the Hoverfly ION is surprisingly intuitive and in no time, even beginner riders should be able to master the basics and be riding, turning and spinning in a matter of minutes.
Safety and usability on the road
We briefly discussed the battery safety specifications above, but in terms of rider safety, the Gotrax Hoverfly ION also has non slip foot grips, bumpers, and an auto shutdown mode.
Is the Gotrax Hoverfly ION waterproof?
Gotrax does not make any claims that the Hoverfly ION is waterproof or even water resistant. You should only use the Hoverfly ION in dry conditions. The warranty disclaimer on the Gotrax website states that the warranty will be void if your hoverboard comes into contact with liquid, so it’s not worth the risk.
Gotrax Hoverfly ION Christmas, Boxing Day & Prime Day Deals
Unfortunately, we were unable to locate any price charts for the Hoverfly ION. As such, speculating any future Christmas, Boxing Day or Prime Day deals is rather tricky. However, Gotrax are known to often offer deals on a variety of products throughout the year; as such, we believe Christmas & Boxing Day very likely to include a few discounts here and there. However, we don’t think that Prime Day will feature significant deals, if any, on the Hoverfly ION.
Furthermore, we couldn’t actually locate any product listing on Amazon for this hoverboard. That’s not to say that possible Prime Day deals are completely off the table for the Hoverfly ION, though. Stay alert and keep checking back for updates; alternatively, check out our best hoverboard for adults and for kids from our best hoverboards of 2020 list to find your perfect board!
Gotrax Hoverfly ION Black Friday & Cyber Monday deals 2020
If you’re looking to buy the Gotrax Hoverfly ION, we think it is probably worth waiting to see if any Gotrax Black Friday deals are released in 2020 as this will likely be the best time to buy. We’ll be listing any Gotrax Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals we come across on this page so check the price below for the latest price movements. Alternatively, discover our list of possible Black Friday hoverboard deals this 2020, take a look at our in-depth Gotrax Hoverfly Ion Black Friday analysis or continue reading for some Hoverfly ION deals & promo codes.
Gotrax Hoverfly ION Deals, Promos & Coupons 2020
In this section, we will cover a number of deals, promos and coupon codes for the Hoverfly ION; alongside general Gotrax deals such as 5% off all hoverboards, 10% sitewide, etc. Stay up to date with this section, as these deals are always changing! Savings-conscious commuters and electric enthusiasts alike are always looking to get the best possible deals, and we’re here to help. Think we’ve missed something or found a deal too good to be true? Leave a comment and get in contact with us, and we’ll either add the deal or verify it. Discover a number of deals & promos for the Hoverfly ION below and as always, ride safe! Feel free to discover our in-depth Gotrax Coupons page for 2020.
See more Gotrax Coupons now!
